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Brimstone and Fire #2
The Phantom Flame
Four years after losing Cassian to the Hells, Kellan Manchester is fighting demons day in and day out. His grief and anger threaten to consume him, and even though he has friends to keep him grounded, nothing seems to ease the sting of loss. When new information about Cassian resurfaces, Kellan is determined to break the shackles that keep him bound to the Legion and Spiral City.
Cassian is alive, but stuck. He finds himself in the Hells and in a pact with a demon named Zalmelloth. Although his power has grown significantly, all he can think of is getting back to the material plane, and back to Kellan. As his knowledge of the Hells grows, Cassian realizes there is much more to the other planes than he’d originally anticipated.
Secrets await both of them in their quests for freedom, secrets that can change everything they know about Ileron and the Empire. Their journeys will lead them to revelations that will rip apart the very fabric that holds their worlds together.
Cassian is alive, but stuck. He finds himself in the Hells and in a pact with a demon named Zalmelloth. Although his power has grown significantly, all he can think of is getting back to the material plane, and back to Kellan. As his knowledge of the Hells grows, Cassian realizes there is much more to the other planes than he’d originally anticipated.
Secrets await both of them in their quests for freedom, secrets that can change everything they know about Ileron and the Empire. Their journeys will lead them to revelations that will rip apart the very fabric that holds their worlds together.
- GenresQueer
496 pages, Paperback
Published March 1, 2024
2 people are currently reading
69 people want to read
About the author
T.M. Ledvina
3 books40 followersT.M. Ledvina is an avid reader and writer with a bachelor of the arts in English, and loves all things fantasy and romance. They live in Madison, Wisconsin with her husband, Ryan, and certified good boy, Cori. When they aren’t writing, you can find her watching anime, playing ttrpgs, or enjoying video games. Ledvina is the author of the Brimstone and Fire series.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
January 15, 2024
"He was bleeding inside, but his skin was smooth and unblemished."
*A huge thank you to Tia for allowing me to read an ARC of The Phantom Flame!! All thoughts and comments are my own.*
The Phantom Flame is book two in the Brimstone and Fire series. The series has to be read in order and the following has spoilers from book 1, Of Blood, Bones, and Truth. TPF starts three years after the events of OBBT. Cassian is in one the Hells, healed but altered after his pact with Zalmelloth. Kellan, Vaida, and Selwyn have been left to grieve what they've all lost, not knowing what's become of Cassian and Pontius. What follows is a powerful tale of heartache, grief, friendship, and above all, hope.
Ledvina wrote a masterclass in loss. The ebb and flow of grief, the need to forget, if only for a few moments, the anger, and the longevity that it sits with you. All of it written in such a beautifully sad way that she brought me to tears countless times through the course of the story. (Several times while I was reading on public transportation. Crying in a mask? Do not recommend.)
This story has a great balance of character and relationship development along with plot. As on OBBT there are mysteries to unravel, as well as a dangerous quest, that keeps the story engaging and moving. My favorite soft boys are not in for an easy time in this story, but their journey separately and together in top tier. While Kellan and Cassian will always have my whole heart, the standout relationship for me is Kellan and Vaida's friendship. Ledvina writes such moving platonic relationships that showcase the necessity of those types of bonds.
There is a new POV in this book. Beck steps in to the spotlight, shining a light on the innerworkings of The Phantom Flame, along with POVs from Kellan and Cassian. Beck is mentioned and makes a brief appearance in OBBT, but truly gets to shine and come into his own in TPF. Beck's life has not been easy, and he continually gets thrust into bad situations by those controlling his destiny. How he holds onto a piece of himself throughout it all is equal parts impressive and heartbreaking. There are multiple new characters introduced, who are all extremely compelling. Zal stands out as especially funny and mysterious. I still can't get a handle on zir motivations.
The Phantom Flame is an outstanding follow-up to Of Blood, Bones, and Truth! While there is a cliffhanger, it's easier to handle than the one in OBBT. I still need book three like my life depends on it though! The Brimstone and Fire series has quickly become one of my favorites, and I love every bit of these stories. I cannot recommend this series enough!! The Phantom Flame is an absolute must read!
"It was spilling over, his grief; a cup so long overfull that even the slightest shake would send the contents crashing over the sides. Beck could sense it. The delicate dance Kellan was doing to maintain that balance, to the keep the cup from spilling over."
"He'd loved, unashamedly and unabashedly. It had been so brief, enough that he'd not been given time to appreciate it, to understand it. But he'd known, if they'd had time, it would have been perfect. It would have been everything he wanted, but didn't deserve."
"He'd lay his heart in her hands if it could still beat outside his body; he knew she'd take care of it."
*A huge thank you to Tia for allowing me to read an ARC of The Phantom Flame!! All thoughts and comments are my own.*
The Phantom Flame is book two in the Brimstone and Fire series. The series has to be read in order and the following has spoilers from book 1, Of Blood, Bones, and Truth. TPF starts three years after the events of OBBT. Cassian is in one the Hells, healed but altered after his pact with Zalmelloth. Kellan, Vaida, and Selwyn have been left to grieve what they've all lost, not knowing what's become of Cassian and Pontius. What follows is a powerful tale of heartache, grief, friendship, and above all, hope.
Ledvina wrote a masterclass in loss. The ebb and flow of grief, the need to forget, if only for a few moments, the anger, and the longevity that it sits with you. All of it written in such a beautifully sad way that she brought me to tears countless times through the course of the story. (Several times while I was reading on public transportation. Crying in a mask? Do not recommend.)
This story has a great balance of character and relationship development along with plot. As on OBBT there are mysteries to unravel, as well as a dangerous quest, that keeps the story engaging and moving. My favorite soft boys are not in for an easy time in this story, but their journey separately and together in top tier. While Kellan and Cassian will always have my whole heart, the standout relationship for me is Kellan and Vaida's friendship. Ledvina writes such moving platonic relationships that showcase the necessity of those types of bonds.
There is a new POV in this book. Beck steps in to the spotlight, shining a light on the innerworkings of The Phantom Flame, along with POVs from Kellan and Cassian. Beck is mentioned and makes a brief appearance in OBBT, but truly gets to shine and come into his own in TPF. Beck's life has not been easy, and he continually gets thrust into bad situations by those controlling his destiny. How he holds onto a piece of himself throughout it all is equal parts impressive and heartbreaking. There are multiple new characters introduced, who are all extremely compelling. Zal stands out as especially funny and mysterious. I still can't get a handle on zir motivations.
The Phantom Flame is an outstanding follow-up to Of Blood, Bones, and Truth! While there is a cliffhanger, it's easier to handle than the one in OBBT. I still need book three like my life depends on it though! The Brimstone and Fire series has quickly become one of my favorites, and I love every bit of these stories. I cannot recommend this series enough!! The Phantom Flame is an absolute must read!
"It was spilling over, his grief; a cup so long overfull that even the slightest shake would send the contents crashing over the sides. Beck could sense it. The delicate dance Kellan was doing to maintain that balance, to the keep the cup from spilling over."
"He'd loved, unashamedly and unabashedly. It had been so brief, enough that he'd not been given time to appreciate it, to understand it. But he'd known, if they'd had time, it would have been perfect. It would have been everything he wanted, but didn't deserve."
"He'd lay his heart in her hands if it could still beat outside his body; he knew she'd take care of it."
March 21, 2024
I have been waiting for this book for so long, and I was not disappointed at all! Getting to be back in this world and with these characters was like a breath of fresh air. This book did have me sobbing, but there were also so many moments that put a smile on my face.
I know I already said this, but I was so happy to be back with these characters!! I truly missed my sweet boys so much, and though they have changed since the last book, I still love them so much. I am also obsessed with the side characters in this series, and was so happy to meet some new ones. I can’t wait to see more of them!
Ledvina also expanded this incredible world beautifully. The imagery is out of this world, and I enjoyed exploring new spots as well as being back in the world I loved so much from the first book.
Lastly, the writing in The Phantom Flame that dealt with grief was so tragically beautiful. It made me cry at times, but it was just what my soul needed. I am so glad that I was able to read this series, and truly can’t wait to see where the rest of this series. T.M Ledvina is one of my favorite authors, even with those killer cliffhangers.
I know I already said this, but I was so happy to be back with these characters!! I truly missed my sweet boys so much, and though they have changed since the last book, I still love them so much. I am also obsessed with the side characters in this series, and was so happy to meet some new ones. I can’t wait to see more of them!
Ledvina also expanded this incredible world beautifully. The imagery is out of this world, and I enjoyed exploring new spots as well as being back in the world I loved so much from the first book.
Lastly, the writing in The Phantom Flame that dealt with grief was so tragically beautiful. It made me cry at times, but it was just what my soul needed. I am so glad that I was able to read this series, and truly can’t wait to see where the rest of this series. T.M Ledvina is one of my favorite authors, even with those killer cliffhangers.
February 25, 2024
“He’d never been this powerful before. It felt good. But it didn’t feel right.” 🔥🌙
ARC provided by the author in return for an honest review!
This was an excellent sequel to the first book in the series, Of Blood, Bones, & Truth. TPF felt more character focused than book 1, but centers around a quest to find powerful artifacts as the demon invasion of the mortal world worsens. Many aspects are loosely based off of D&D (which brings me GREAT joy) but it still stands on its own with an intriguing technologically advanced and complex magical society. While I found the start a little slow, it still had so many important character moments that helped propel them all into the second half of the book. There’s so much angst in this baby, which means it was right up my alley. 😌
I love the expansion of recurring characters, as well as getting to know new ones! Reaper and Spider were my favorite additions to the cast, and I can’t WAIT to see where their story takes them next. 😈 I loved the focus on character dynamics throughout, as well as the amazing diversity present in every character on the page. 🌈🤍
ARC provided by the author in return for an honest review!
This was an excellent sequel to the first book in the series, Of Blood, Bones, & Truth. TPF felt more character focused than book 1, but centers around a quest to find powerful artifacts as the demon invasion of the mortal world worsens. Many aspects are loosely based off of D&D (which brings me GREAT joy) but it still stands on its own with an intriguing technologically advanced and complex magical society. While I found the start a little slow, it still had so many important character moments that helped propel them all into the second half of the book. There’s so much angst in this baby, which means it was right up my alley. 😌
I love the expansion of recurring characters, as well as getting to know new ones! Reaper and Spider were my favorite additions to the cast, and I can’t WAIT to see where their story takes them next. 😈 I loved the focus on character dynamics throughout, as well as the amazing diversity present in every character on the page. 🌈🤍
March 27, 2024
Intriguing plots, lovable, flawed characters and a perfectly flowing language—The Phantom Flame has it all. I thoroughly enjoyed the book following Of Blood, Bones and Truth, and for anyone looking for an adult, demonic, urban-esc fantasy with romantic subplots, I highly, highly recommend this series! Tia is a hugely talented author, and you ought to both follow her and support their work.
It's a breath of fresh air encountering a second book in a series that is not suffering from the "second book syndrome" but is actually filled with interesting plots and solid pacing—I never found myself grow bored as I read it. Rather, I wanted to know what would happen next. Especially once I'd hit perhaps the last third, I flew through the text. I dropped my mouth, I smiled stupidly, I felt emotional, and I could feel the bonds between these characters—these friends. Absolutely such a stunning book, and I CANNOT WAIT for the next book!
Also, I never knew I could form such an attachment to literal orbs.
Four point five out of five stars
The Phantom Flame comes out March 26th and I thank Tia so very much for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
It's a breath of fresh air encountering a second book in a series that is not suffering from the "second book syndrome" but is actually filled with interesting plots and solid pacing—I never found myself grow bored as I read it. Rather, I wanted to know what would happen next. Especially once I'd hit perhaps the last third, I flew through the text. I dropped my mouth, I smiled stupidly, I felt emotional, and I could feel the bonds between these characters—these friends. Absolutely such a stunning book, and I CANNOT WAIT for the next book!
Also, I never knew I could form such an attachment to literal orbs.
Four point five out of five stars
The Phantom Flame comes out March 26th and I thank Tia so very much for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 4, 2024
CAWPILE: 8.85/4.75 ⭐️
Ok, I did not sign up to FEEL like this! These boys have been through so much, oh my god! They deserve a break!!
Absolutely adored this sequel to OBBT, and cannot wait for the next book in the series! Things just keep getting more and more complicated for this group, and I desperately hope they find ways to fix everything!
Ok, I did not sign up to FEEL like this! These boys have been through so much, oh my god! They deserve a break!!
Absolutely adored this sequel to OBBT, and cannot wait for the next book in the series! Things just keep getting more and more complicated for this group, and I desperately hope they find ways to fix everything!
February 20, 2024
The second entry to the Brimstone and Fire series, exceeded all of my expectations.
Characters on either side are written very beautifully, I literally felt like I’m hearing a story from my friends, cause while reading I actually did develop a friendship with all of them. There are a ton of new faces here and they are all quite memorable. Especially those who love to drive...
This book expands vastly on its lore, which I absolutely loved!
While the first book was more focused on individual journeys of the assassins, this one focuses on friendship, found family and trust! It’s quite different from the first one, but still stays faithful to the story the first one started.
I took longer than expected to finish this, cause this was one of those situations where I just didn’t want the book to end!
I’d definitely recommend this one, if you’ve read the first part you’ll probably already be onboard with this, if you haven’t, you should definitely check it out! This is a really good original series, it deserves a lot of love!!!
Got an advance copy of this, and all opinions are my own.
Characters on either side are written very beautifully, I literally felt like I’m hearing a story from my friends, cause while reading I actually did develop a friendship with all of them. There are a ton of new faces here and they are all quite memorable. Especially those who love to drive...
This book expands vastly on its lore, which I absolutely loved!
While the first book was more focused on individual journeys of the assassins, this one focuses on friendship, found family and trust! It’s quite different from the first one, but still stays faithful to the story the first one started.
I took longer than expected to finish this, cause this was one of those situations where I just didn’t want the book to end!
I’d definitely recommend this one, if you’ve read the first part you’ll probably already be onboard with this, if you haven’t, you should definitely check it out! This is a really good original series, it deserves a lot of love!!!
Got an advance copy of this, and all opinions are my own.
March 23, 2024
First and foremost, a huge thank you to the author for allowing me to read the ARC of the second installment in the Fire and Brimstone series: The Phantom Flame!! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Disclaimer: I don’t think this review is reallyyyy spoilery but I do mention the names of new characters and hint slightly at stuff that happened in book 1
I really liked OBBT and was so excited to dive into this next book! And just like the first one I had a really good time. 🤍 I must admit that I wasn’t as invested in the story as I was with the first book, but it could also totally be because my mind wasn't really 100% focused on the things I was currently reading at the time because ✨life*✨. Thing is, the author is taking a lot of care in building their world and these characters (which is a GOOD thing), so the pacing is bound to be slower at times, and it did feel slower this time for me. I still enjoyed the ride and the quest-for-artifacts plot, always a classic and entertaining intrigue👌. There was still a great balance between plot and character development/ relationships.
I also really like how the author writes the inner thoughts of their characters, I can feel ALL the angst, good and bad, and I still really appreciate and applaud the way grief and loss is written and dealt with. Especially because the events of this book take place a few years after the events of book one, these characters went/are going through it ok? 😭 They have A LOT to unpack, and it was both heartbreaking and heartwarming to see the relationships mend… or not…
I still adore Cassian and Kellan’s relationship so much and I’m so glad they’re now reunited and working together❤️. I’m also really intrigued by Beck’s new pov, his own story, and how it’s going to evolve for him. And I absolutely ADORED Zal !!! ☺️ zem relationship with Cassian was just so interesting and also funny at times, I can’t wait to see and learn more about zem in book three. I felt like we also made tiny progress in understanding the overarching plot and schemes happening in the shadow. I kinda wanted to learn more though? Especially about some characters we encountered in book one, it felt really disconnected from this previous storyline, but I know this is going to be a long series and things are just being set up and hints are being scattered. And we do start to understand certain things about certain characters tehe, 🙃 can’t wait to see how that will turn out!
Ending was just as explosive as book 1 👌 and I will definitively continue the series! I’m really curious to see how everything is going to turn out for these characters and what the author has in store for us. 😳
March 7, 2024
It’s been four years since Kellan lost Cassian, and his grief threatens to consume him, only his friends manage to keep him from fully spiraling out of control. However, a spark of hope flares when rumors of Cassian sightings surface, spurring Kellan to attempt the unthinkable… escape from the Legion.
Unknown to Kellan, Cassian is alive, simply stuck in the Hells with the demon Zalmelloth, with whom he made a pact in order to save his life on that fateful day. He spends his time harnessing the newfound power his pact has given him, but his thoughts still wander to Kellan; time passes differently in the Hells, is the boy he left behind still the same after however long?
The ties of fate pull these star-crossed lovers back together in a most unlikely place, the headquarters of the human resistance, The Phantom Flame.
I won’t lie, I found myself having a lot of trouble getting through the beginning, there were a lot of characters introduced rather quickly and it was hard to process the development of certain characters on the other side of the time skip. It also felt like the story took a sharp turn into a completely different setting, which gave me a bit of whiplash.
However, once things got rolling they didn’t stop! I found myself unable to put it down as the adventure aspect ramped up and I was constantly on the edge of my seat, hoping things would go smoothly for everyone. The lore of the world is slowly being built, revealing things that even the denizens of that world didn’t know. The action built up even into the final page, leaving you screaming to know what’s going to happen next, but I guess we have a bit of a wait ahead of us haha.
All in all, this book did exactly what I assume it’s meant to do, bridge the first and final books, explaining enough but also leaving us with more questions and wanting more of the characters we’ve come to love so much.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
Unknown to Kellan, Cassian is alive, simply stuck in the Hells with the demon Zalmelloth, with whom he made a pact in order to save his life on that fateful day. He spends his time harnessing the newfound power his pact has given him, but his thoughts still wander to Kellan; time passes differently in the Hells, is the boy he left behind still the same after however long?
The ties of fate pull these star-crossed lovers back together in a most unlikely place, the headquarters of the human resistance, The Phantom Flame.
I won’t lie, I found myself having a lot of trouble getting through the beginning, there were a lot of characters introduced rather quickly and it was hard to process the development of certain characters on the other side of the time skip. It also felt like the story took a sharp turn into a completely different setting, which gave me a bit of whiplash.
However, once things got rolling they didn’t stop! I found myself unable to put it down as the adventure aspect ramped up and I was constantly on the edge of my seat, hoping things would go smoothly for everyone. The lore of the world is slowly being built, revealing things that even the denizens of that world didn’t know. The action built up even into the final page, leaving you screaming to know what’s going to happen next, but I guess we have a bit of a wait ahead of us haha.
All in all, this book did exactly what I assume it’s meant to do, bridge the first and final books, explaining enough but also leaving us with more questions and wanting more of the characters we’ve come to love so much.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
March 19, 2024
Ledvina has done it again! The Phantom Flame was everything I could've hoped for and all I wanted in the continuation of Cassian and Kellan's story. Picking up four years after the end of Of Blood, Bones, and Truth, a lot has changed in the world Cass and Kellan once knew. Struggling in a world without Cassian, Kellan and Vaida make some desperate moves to not only save themselves, but possibly all of the resistance. But when Kellan is reunited with not one, but two people from his past, one thing is perfectly clear despite all the unknowns and secrets: Kellan won't let Cassian go again.
I love a good rebellion story, but for me, The Phantom Flame was all about the characters. With a good mix of new and returning characters, Ledvina paints every scene and every character in such vivid detail. It's rare for me to not have a character I gravitate towards and like more than the others, but the cast of this book was just so fantastic and engaging that I cannot simply highlight one over the others. I sort of just want to keep them all safe and give them all a big hug.
Of course, all these wonderful characters needed something to do, and Ledvina spun such a detailed tale that it was easy to envision every high and low the characters encountered. This second book took readers out of the city and into a more rural setting, and I loved seeing Cassian, Kellan, and Vaida's world expand beyond what they thought were their limits.
As a reader, it was clear that Ledvina takes great care with her words; nothing felt rushed and everything from the action scenes to the quieter moments were done with great detail. This was, overall, a well-written story with intriguing characters and a unique plot that kept leading me into unknown directions. But for Kellan and Cassian - and their happiness - I would gladly follow wherever Ledvina wants to lead.
[A huge thank you to the author for providing an advanced review copy of The Phantom Flame via BookSirens. All opinions are my own.]
I love a good rebellion story, but for me, The Phantom Flame was all about the characters. With a good mix of new and returning characters, Ledvina paints every scene and every character in such vivid detail. It's rare for me to not have a character I gravitate towards and like more than the others, but the cast of this book was just so fantastic and engaging that I cannot simply highlight one over the others. I sort of just want to keep them all safe and give them all a big hug.
Of course, all these wonderful characters needed something to do, and Ledvina spun such a detailed tale that it was easy to envision every high and low the characters encountered. This second book took readers out of the city and into a more rural setting, and I loved seeing Cassian, Kellan, and Vaida's world expand beyond what they thought were their limits.
As a reader, it was clear that Ledvina takes great care with her words; nothing felt rushed and everything from the action scenes to the quieter moments were done with great detail. This was, overall, a well-written story with intriguing characters and a unique plot that kept leading me into unknown directions. But for Kellan and Cassian - and their happiness - I would gladly follow wherever Ledvina wants to lead.
[A huge thank you to the author for providing an advanced review copy of The Phantom Flame via BookSirens. All opinions are my own.]
March 7, 2024
I was super excited to continue this story and I cannot be more thankful to Tia for letting me read The Phantom Flame ARC!
I must say that Of Blood, Bones and Truth will forever have a special place in my heart, and while I adored the second book, the reason I had to remove a star was because to me the beginning was a bit slow, or at least I should say it took me longer to get really into the story. Part of it is because of the new setting and the new characters.
I love the original cast, but I needed the time to become familiar with the new ones. That being said, Beck was and still is my ride or die. I love that man, I was so happy to see him getting his own POV in this book !
The other reason being that the all-around theme and feel of the second book is a bit different. That's not a flaw by any means, but my brain needed time getting used to all the new things. The switch also makes sense considering it's the second book of the series and it should later connect to the third book. I'm a hundred percent certain once the third book is out it'll all flow nicely, with the second book being a bridge between the two.
Once we got to the more action filled bits of the book I practically flew through it like a breeze. The story remains interesting and engaging much like OBBT, Kellan and Cassian going through a LOT was also a must have in the second book as well lol. I loved them, I love angst, but I was also screaming at my phone screen because I wanted these loveable idiots to communicate properly.
All in all seeing the first book's characters again made me giddy because of how much I missed them, and seeing and getting to know new characters as well made things more interesting!
I must say that Of Blood, Bones and Truth will forever have a special place in my heart, and while I adored the second book, the reason I had to remove a star was because to me the beginning was a bit slow, or at least I should say it took me longer to get really into the story. Part of it is because of the new setting and the new characters.
I love the original cast, but I needed the time to become familiar with the new ones. That being said, Beck was and still is my ride or die. I love that man, I was so happy to see him getting his own POV in this book !
The other reason being that the all-around theme and feel of the second book is a bit different. That's not a flaw by any means, but my brain needed time getting used to all the new things. The switch also makes sense considering it's the second book of the series and it should later connect to the third book. I'm a hundred percent certain once the third book is out it'll all flow nicely, with the second book being a bridge between the two.
Once we got to the more action filled bits of the book I practically flew through it like a breeze. The story remains interesting and engaging much like OBBT, Kellan and Cassian going through a LOT was also a must have in the second book as well lol. I loved them, I love angst, but I was also screaming at my phone screen because I wanted these loveable idiots to communicate properly.
All in all seeing the first book's characters again made me giddy because of how much I missed them, and seeing and getting to know new characters as well made things more interesting!
March 26, 2024
Oh my heart. I knew this was going to hurt, I just didn't know it would be this much. The portrayals and writing of grief in The Phantom Flame was unmatched. I found myself crying many times. And Tia writes some of the best found family I've ever read and I absolutely adore the characters who become my "babies," and my "boys."
Even the new characters that were introduced in book two quickly felt like old friends.
The world and the adventures that Tia takes us on is full of the most gorgeous imagery and of course twists, turns and cliffhangers. 😘
I remember when I first saw the character art for book one and fell in love instantly. Then I saw it was a genre I hadn't read a lot in the past, but I decided to jump in head first and I AM SO GLAD I DID! This is one of my most cherished series. And I hope you'll add this Urban Magical Fantasy series to your TBR! 🥰
"He’d loved, unashamedly and unabashedly. It had been so brief, enough that he’d not been given time to appreciate it, to understand it. But he’d known, if they’d had time, it would have been perfect. It would have been everything he wanted, but didn’t deserve." 😭😭
Even the new characters that were introduced in book two quickly felt like old friends.
The world and the adventures that Tia takes us on is full of the most gorgeous imagery and of course twists, turns and cliffhangers. 😘
I remember when I first saw the character art for book one and fell in love instantly. Then I saw it was a genre I hadn't read a lot in the past, but I decided to jump in head first and I AM SO GLAD I DID! This is one of my most cherished series. And I hope you'll add this Urban Magical Fantasy series to your TBR! 🥰
"He’d loved, unashamedly and unabashedly. It had been so brief, enough that he’d not been given time to appreciate it, to understand it. But he’d known, if they’d had time, it would have been perfect. It would have been everything he wanted, but didn’t deserve." 😭😭
March 13, 2024
What a fun read! Of course I came for Cassian and Kellan but stayed for Beck and his resistance friends. Beck’s story absolutely captivated me and I could not wait for his chapters! The increased insight into human history was beautifully done and so fun to explore. Zal was fascinating as well and I am so excited to explore the Hells more in book 3 now that we have so many demon princes introduced. Tia’s strength is the world building and that really comes across in a second installment that’s even stronger than the first.
April 23, 2024
I'M OBSESSED WITH THESE CHARACTERS, LEDVINA'S WORLD BUILDING, AND THE EMOTIONAL DAMAGE SHE INFLICTS ON ME.
HURTS SO GOOD!!!!😭😭😭❤❤❤❤
HURTS SO GOOD!!!!😭😭😭❤❤❤❤
June 10, 2025
Tia if you're reading this with your own two eyeballs I want you to know you should have left "I'm so sorry" in the chapter title of the lake scene
March 26, 2024
Wow!!
5⭐️!!!
It was so nice to be back inside the Brimstone and Fire world. I missed Kellan and Cassian so much! I didn't think it was possible to love another one of Tia's characters as much as I love them and THEN IN WALKS BECKS.
Ugh.
My heart.
Ledvina writes grief in such a raw, beautiful way it nearly brought me to tears. This journey gets so intense the last third of the book, I could not put it down.
An excellent edition to this series and can't wait to see where the story goes next.
5⭐️!!!
It was so nice to be back inside the Brimstone and Fire world. I missed Kellan and Cassian so much! I didn't think it was possible to love another one of Tia's characters as much as I love them and THEN IN WALKS BECKS.
Ugh.
My heart.
Ledvina writes grief in such a raw, beautiful way it nearly brought me to tears. This journey gets so intense the last third of the book, I could not put it down.
An excellent edition to this series and can't wait to see where the story goes next.
April 8, 2024
This sequel is just as rich as the first one, but you get more into the characters themselves and get to know plenty of new ones. I loved the addition of Spider and Reaper and their chapters were my favorite! Beck has my heart and has jumped to the top of my favorites list. Tia be nice to him, please!! And everyone deserves a friend like Vaida.
While the first book focused more on Kellan’s and Cassian’s journey as a whole, this one delves deeper into each character and their relationships to each other platonic or otherwise. It also dived deeper into the world and it’s history, so you get a better understanding of everything which I’m assuming is going to tie in nicely for book three. The amazing diverse reps continues in this book too!
While the first book focused more on Kellan’s and Cassian’s journey as a whole, this one delves deeper into each character and their relationships to each other platonic or otherwise. It also dived deeper into the world and it’s history, so you get a better understanding of everything which I’m assuming is going to tie in nicely for book three. The amazing diverse reps continues in this book too!
January 21, 2024
Arghhhh what an ending ....
** ARC Review **
The Phantom Flame by @tiamae.books
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is the 2nd book in the Brimstone and Fire Series
“Don’t do that again, okay? I’d like for you to stay alive.”
“I think,” Cassian began, his words slow and deliberate, “I wouldn’t mind having someone like you save me.”
This book was amazing!!! I have loved being back in this world!!
It was full of Angst, Hurt, Betrayals, Friendships, Found Family and most of all TENSION!!!
I adore these characters so bloody much!! Cass has to be my favourite... he's such a beautiful soul he obviously has his problems but he means well. His and Zals interactions had me in stitches 🤣
Kellan is such a snarky loveable character too!! His stubbornness and longing in this book!! 🥹🥹
We met some knew characters too... I loved Spider and The Gang
We also got to see more of Beck and Vaida who I love so much too! He's a tortured soul and the things he has to do for reasons he has no choice over 🥺😭 Vaida is such a baddass and I'm really intrigued to see more about her past and a certain connection to another character 👀👀
Best side characters for me in this were Zal and The little ball of light 😅
Honestly this book threw me through so many loops and the betrayals hurt like hell even when you knew they coming it still hurt like a Biatch 😭😭
I can't wait to get my hands on book 3!!! Tia's writing is brilliant and I was hooked through this story... there is some epic fight scenes too!!
The world building and descriptive writing really made you feel like you were there with them! Character development was also spot on 😊
Thank you Tia for letting me be a part of your street team it's been amazing!! 🥰
#OBBT #ofbloodbonesandtruth #tmledvina
#brimstoneandfireseries #bafseries #TPF
#thephantomflame
** ARC Review **
The Phantom Flame by @tiamae.books
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is the 2nd book in the Brimstone and Fire Series
“Don’t do that again, okay? I’d like for you to stay alive.”
“I think,” Cassian began, his words slow and deliberate, “I wouldn’t mind having someone like you save me.”
This book was amazing!!! I have loved being back in this world!!
It was full of Angst, Hurt, Betrayals, Friendships, Found Family and most of all TENSION!!!
I adore these characters so bloody much!! Cass has to be my favourite... he's such a beautiful soul he obviously has his problems but he means well. His and Zals interactions had me in stitches 🤣
Kellan is such a snarky loveable character too!! His stubbornness and longing in this book!! 🥹🥹
We met some knew characters too... I loved Spider and The Gang
We also got to see more of Beck and Vaida who I love so much too! He's a tortured soul and the things he has to do for reasons he has no choice over 🥺😭 Vaida is such a baddass and I'm really intrigued to see more about her past and a certain connection to another character 👀👀
Best side characters for me in this were Zal and The little ball of light 😅
Honestly this book threw me through so many loops and the betrayals hurt like hell even when you knew they coming it still hurt like a Biatch 😭😭
I can't wait to get my hands on book 3!!! Tia's writing is brilliant and I was hooked through this story... there is some epic fight scenes too!!
The world building and descriptive writing really made you feel like you were there with them! Character development was also spot on 😊
Thank you Tia for letting me be a part of your street team it's been amazing!! 🥰
#OBBT #ofbloodbonesandtruth #tmledvina
#brimstoneandfireseries #bafseries #TPF
#thephantomflame
January 13, 2024
The Phantom Flame
@tiamae.books
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Arc
Thank you so much to the wonderful Tia for this arc copy!
Last year, I read OBBT (book 1) and it blew me away. The elegance in the writing, the amazing plot, the various characters that were so brilliant to connect with. I was worried, as I am with all sequels, that book two would be lack lustre and now as exciting. And TPH has destroyed all of those worries.
TPH is absolutely dripping with heartache, pain and suffering and a sprinkle of romance tied in with a journey to find lost artefacts as the main plot and it was truly brilliant.
I will say, this book is WAY more character focused in my opinion which I loved but the main plot is always visible and always active.
The book is fast paced, in my opinion, and it gives a great feel to the adventure side of the book.
Our main two boys though, Kellan and Cassian don't half go through an emotional war and Tias writing just makes your heart absolutely shatter for them.
The pain and anguish they feel, you feel. The love and beautiful heartfelt moments, you gush over them.
I also love how the *side* characters are beautifully fleshed out and have their own missions and lives.
OBBT and TPH cover all sexualities and genders too which I ADORE. There is something for EVERYONE in this book.
*Cough* Liv & Vaida forever *cough* the sweet beans!
Tia is one of the most eloquent writers I've ever known and her books just keep giving page after page.
If you haven't read OBBT yet, you really should. It was one of my TOP books of last year and I have a feeling this will be placing high for me this year too!
@tiamae.books
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Arc
Thank you so much to the wonderful Tia for this arc copy!
Last year, I read OBBT (book 1) and it blew me away. The elegance in the writing, the amazing plot, the various characters that were so brilliant to connect with. I was worried, as I am with all sequels, that book two would be lack lustre and now as exciting. And TPH has destroyed all of those worries.
TPH is absolutely dripping with heartache, pain and suffering and a sprinkle of romance tied in with a journey to find lost artefacts as the main plot and it was truly brilliant.
I will say, this book is WAY more character focused in my opinion which I loved but the main plot is always visible and always active.
The book is fast paced, in my opinion, and it gives a great feel to the adventure side of the book.
Our main two boys though, Kellan and Cassian don't half go through an emotional war and Tias writing just makes your heart absolutely shatter for them.
The pain and anguish they feel, you feel. The love and beautiful heartfelt moments, you gush over them.
I also love how the *side* characters are beautifully fleshed out and have their own missions and lives.
OBBT and TPH cover all sexualities and genders too which I ADORE. There is something for EVERYONE in this book.
*Cough* Liv & Vaida forever *cough* the sweet beans!
Tia is one of the most eloquent writers I've ever known and her books just keep giving page after page.
If you haven't read OBBT yet, you really should. It was one of my TOP books of last year and I have a feeling this will be placing high for me this year too!
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews